Ranji Trophy Plate 2025-26
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 24 2025:

Will emphasize on building strong partnerships, targeting weakness: Captain K Bishworjit ahead of clash with Bihar

Manipur senior men's team captain Konthoujam Bishworjit said his team will emphasize on building strong partnerships, disciplined bowling and targeting weakness ahead of this season's second Ranji Trophy Plate Group clash against Bihar commencing tomorrow at Nadiad.

In a conversation with The Sangai Express, Konthoujam Bishworjit praised the team's positive spirit in the first match against Sikkim that ended in a draw with a 32-run first innings lead at Rangpo, Sikkim.

Captain K Bishworjit

"The team spirit is really positive.

Even though the last match ended in a draw, we played some good cricket and showed character", he said.

Expressing regret over some missed chances, he underlined the need to focus on converting small moments into wins, especially in fielding and partnerships.

"We learned a lot from the last match - particularly the importance of taking our chances.

We missed a few catches and run-outs that allowed the opposition to build partnerships", he said.

"We've been working hard on our fielding and communication.

In batting too, building strong partnerships early on will be crucial, and that's something we're focusing on for the next game," he said.

On being asked about the strategy he and his team is planning to adopt against Bihar, the right-arm fast-medium bowler outlined a simple approach involving discipline and teamwork.

"Bihar have a strong and experienced batting lineup with a few aggressive players.

Our approach will be to keep things simple and stick to the basics.

Discipline and teamwork are key - we plan to stay consistent with our line and length and support each other throughout the game," he said.

"Personally, I'll look to make early inroads with the new ball and create pressure that the rest of the bowlers can build on," he said.

"Both our seamers and spinners are in good rhythm, and we're confident about executing our plans well to keep them under pressure throughout the innings," he continued.

On the conditions of Gokulbhai Somabhai Patel Stadium in Nadiad where Manipur will host Bihar, Bishwoijit said it will be important for the bowlers, especially the spinners, to take advantage of whatever assistance is available keeping the flat pitch of the stadium in mind.

"Our batters will also have to take responsibility and put up a solid total.

It's going to be a test of patience and consistency for everyone," Bishworjit, who became the first from Manipur North East to sign with an English club, Tynemouth Cricket Club, added.

When questioned about his expectations after a strong start in the previous match, Bishworjit, said he focuses on staying present and not thinking about external expectations, motivated by his previous performance.

"I try not to think too much about external expectations.

Every match is a new opportunity, and I focus on staying in the present.

Performing well in one game is always motivating, but the goal is to keep improving and contributing to the team's success without letting pressure affect my mindset," he said.

He also said that his stint in England was very beneficial.

Playing in different conditions, especially with the red ball, helped me adapt and understand the game better.

The experience improved my control, patience, and ability to read situations - all of which are proving valuable in the Ranji season, he said.

When asked about his personal goals for the next match, Bishworjit, who made his debut for Manipur in the 2018-19 Vijay Hazare Trophy, said his goal is to help the team win and contribute through consistent bowling, wickets, and fielding support.

Notably, Bishworjit has been a key player for Manipur since his debut for the State and was instrumental in Manipur's Elite Group qualification back in the 2022-23 season Ranji Trophy.

He is the son of Konthoujam Rajendro and Shama of Patsoi Part IV.

He enjoyed a match-haul of five wickets in the previous match against Sikkim to amass 126 wickets in 42 First Class cricket matches.